3 Big Ways We Can Learn From William Morris in 2024

Photograph of William Morris (Emery Walker) Courtesy of “Independent”

“I do not want art for a few, any more than education for a few, or freedom for a few. . .” - William Morris

Once upon a time, people increasingly bought mass-produced furniture, art, and goods. . .sound familiar?

Though this could easily be 2024, this time actually was 1860, but it’s a constant challenge for anyone looking to make a unqiue and individualized home. Today, we’re barraged with easy options—the low-hanging fruit to walk into Pottery Barn and walk out with an entire matching bedroom or living room.

But is this easy 10-minute buy worth the years you’ll be living surrounded by factory mass-produced goods?

The answer is (hopefully) no. Back in 1860, one of the all-time great designers William Morris, faced this same challenge and sailed through with limitless creativity. In this era, WM might have been considered "cottagecore."  He rebelled against the new ways and sought out opportunities to bring nature and natural materials into his craft.  He was a wallpaper, textile, and carpet designer, not to mention a book designer. He thought materials of the industrial time looked "unnatural."

Let’s take his word for it with these William Morris-approved ways to create more personal design.

Way #1: Don’t Hit the Amazon Button by Default

Birmingham’s Museum Trust

It’s very tempting to hit ‘BUY’ or ‘ADD TO CART’ since, well it’s SO EASY.

Instead, head over to Cratejoy to read about 7 websites that make it just as easy to buy artisan-made goods. William Morris emphasized returning to handmade objects—and today it’s easier than ever to find uniquely crafted pieces from makers around the world.

These sites offer genuine-made pieces for similar prices, where the artisan is controlling their own business. This is a great way to directly support artists and artisans.

Way #2: Search for Artists in Your Community

It’s easy to find local artists on your computer or swiping away on your phone.

Hop on Instagram or Facebook Marketplace to search for local artists and browse what they’ve made. The trick is using keywords to search for artists you are drawn to. So if you are looking for “folk art,” for example, use that keyword along with “cottagecore art” or “handmade art.” Get creative with the keywords because you can often uncover a hidden gem buried somewhere within the search. Anywhere and everywhere, there’s a wealth of local artists looking to build connections.

If you look at some of William Morris’ own work you can see how exceptional it is to have original art. Art is meant to inspire, not just fill a space.

Message artists—discover amazing new things and meet new people. Also, if you’re a Good Samaritan, share their art with others and see your friends mimicking your awesome finds soon.

WAY #3 EMBRACE SLOW DESIGN

You’ve probably heard of slow fashion, which involves buying high-quality, well-crafted clothing that’s not produced in mass quantities. Not only is this a more sustainable way to shop, but it’s also a great way to support local makers and invest in unique pieces that last longer in your wardrobe.

So, what about slow interior design? Making a conscious choice to buy upcycled furnishings or quality handcrafted pieces for the home allows you to create a more intentional space—and I always think that by doing so, your home will evolve into the narrative you want to express. Taking your time to find the right pieces or saving up for those standout items will result in collections you’ll cherish for years to come.

William Morris of 2024 would have advocated for this philosophy—I know it. Slowly accumulating pieces that add significance to your space, especially when they’re handmade, one-of-a-kind, or vintage, will give your home the personality you desire.  

So if you’re struggling to get started, do a quick audit of all that you have now.

Is purchasing big box store art transporting you places? Does it make the house feel like your true space to be yourself?

If not, make a note and start looking around online or in-person at local art galleries or on Cratejoy. Use your imagination to see what your place could be. Add touches of craftsmanship to your home through a handmade vintage object, piece of furniture, or if you are ambitious, DIY your project with natural materials.

That way, the spirit of art, and of William Morris, will keep inspiring your daily life.